OSHA is planning new regulations governing several workplace practices that will impact the construction industry in 2020.
OSHA plans to issue a proposed rule in May that would amend parts of the cranes and derricks in construction standard. Revisions will include correcting references to power line voltages, broadening the exclusion for forklifts carrying loads under the forks from “winch or hook” to a “winch and boom.” Revisions would also clarify an exclusion for work activities by articulating cranes.
Other new rules will pertain to communication tower safety, welding in confined spaces, and occupational exposure to beryllium and beryllium compounds. Another set of rules would update the Hazard Communication Standard.
In November, OSHA says it plans to propose rules for post-incident drug testing and safety incentive programs. The agency is also expected to issue a proposed rule regarding personal protective equipment in the construction industry.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Sep 2, 2020
California releases guide for state water policy
Water Resilience Portfolio is roadmap for meeting water needs as climate changes.
Codes and Standards | Aug 31, 2020
Fenestration alliance updates fenestration sealants guide
First update to 2009 document.
Codes and Standards | Aug 25, 2020
Platform will allow researchers to test energy system integration at scale
The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) recently launched the Advanced Research on Integrated Energy Systems (ARIES) platform.
Codes and Standards | Aug 20, 2020
Wariness of elevators may stymie office reopening
Workers could balk at returning to high-rises.
Codes and Standards | Aug 19, 2020
Existing laws may be restricting efforts to cut carbon emissions
Outdated policies favor fossil fuels.
Codes and Standards | Aug 18, 2020
Florida becomes the third state to adopt concrete repair code
Sets minimum requirements for design, construction, repair of concrete structural elements in buildings.
Codes and Standards | Aug 17, 2020
ASCE seeks comments on seismic standard
Pertains to design criteria for nuclear facilities.
Codes and Standards | Aug 13, 2020
COVID-19 reboot guide offers strategies for reopening K-12 schools
Looks at space considerations for reopening at different scales.
Codes and Standards | Aug 12, 2020
Document provides guidance for mass timber construction
Overview of Intl. Building Code requirements included.
Codes and Standards | Aug 11, 2020
Inefficient air conditioning is a key contributor to global warming
More efficient equipment and buildings could make a big difference.